My name is M2309 – My Life as a Touring Bike
04 July 2026
” Your most loyal adventure companion”
“I am a bicycle. And not just any bicycle. A touring bicycle.
I’ve seen the land. The real thing. The kind where your calves burn, your bags are full, and you have impromptu picnics. And today, here I am, back home.
They’re unloading me gently. My tires are full of sand, and (between you and me) I have a faint scent of Breton rain. I’m back at the workshop, and I know what’s in store for me…”
Step 1: The Big Cleanup
“After a quick look, Julien, my mechanic, and Xavier, my logistics manager, log my return into the computer. Next comes the first step in my rebirth: a shower.
At first it seems a little rough. We scrub, we rinse, we pay extra attention to spots I’d forgotten about myself. But I have to admit: Julien always treats me with great care. He studies me, wipes me down with a cloth, even blows air on my transmission… just so I don’t rust. If that isn’t love, what is?
Deep down, this big cleanup does me a world of good.
The dust disappears, but the memories remain.
And most importantly, I’m starting to look decent again.”
The checkup
“No appointment is needed, but it’s mandatory. This might be the most awkward moment. Julien starts examining me from every angle: it’s time for a thorough inspection. He checks all the fasteners and makes sure the braking system is working properly. He inspects the wear on the brake pads as well as all the drivetrain components (chain, cassette, etc.). He makes sure everything is sufficiently lubricated. He has me turn, brake, and ride… kind of like a vehicle inspection, but with less paperwork.
Nothing should be left to chance because the next person who rides with me deserves a trip without any unpleasant surprises.
A little adjustment here, a little lubrication there. Honestly? It’s almost relaxing.
And here I am, almost ready for a new trip!”
New equipment, new assignment
“Julien is equipping me. Xavier is labeling me. I’ve been assigned a new travel companion, and I’m waiting for him in the departure area, near the loading docks.
I’ve been registered. By scanning my QR code, you can access my ID and my tracking history. When a rider requests it, I can be fitted with clipless pedals, a trailer, a child seat, or a follow-me. And I love dressing up!
J’ai été fiché. En scannant mon QRcode, on a accès à ma carte d’identité et à mon historique de suivi. Lorsque le voyageur le demande, je peux me voir attifé de pédales automatiques, d’une remorque, d’un siège enfant ou d’un follow-me. Et moi, j’adore les déguisements !
Then I wait.
Not for long. Because there are always travelers.
I see maps, panniers, and repair kits going by.
I hear people talking about the terrain, the wind, and breathtaking landscapes.
And I know. I know that soon, someone will place their hands on my handlebars, adjust my saddle… and it will all start over again. A fresh start, a new story. Maybe rugged hills, maybe roads through the open countryside.
Maybe a seasoned veteran, maybe a somewhat hesitant beginner.
In any case, I’m ready. Always.
Because that’s what my life is all about: going on one trip after another, racking up the miles, and being, every time, the most loyal companion on a new adventure.
After all, being a touring bicycle is undoubtedly the best job in the world.”Finalement, être un vélo de voyage, c’est sans doute leplus beau métier du monde. “
